Front Locking Hubs get HOT! Problem?
 

After driving only about 5-10 miles, my front Warn hubs are too hot to touch. Is this a sign of a problem? Or is this normal. They are in the free position. The truck is new to me and I have not tried to lock them into 4wd.

They look pretty worn from the outside (sorry...pun)

http://www.schwagg.com/72k5/frontwheel.jpg

Wheel bearings may be to tight, the calipers may be sticking. Should not be that hot after only 5 miles.

Thanks, Is there a way to test for this without having to disassemble the hub?

i would pull it apart and check the bearings....for sure...if the calipers come off easily then they are prolly ok....check the brake pads for even wear if not very even then and the calipers are difficult to remove they are prolly sticking... either thing will cause heat..im leaning towards the calipers sticking ive had some very bad bearings and they didnt create that much heat that fast....

I agree look at those brakes calipers first. I had one seize up, talk about hot.

The easiest way to check it w/out pulling down is to jack it up and spin wheel. See if brakes are dragging or has unusual noise or "rough" spot in bearings.

I'll give that a try. I have not noticed any strange brake issues. I seem to roll pretty straight ane easy.

A siezed wheel bearing can create lots of heat by spinning the inner race on the spindle. I have experienced this problem.

Hmm,
Is it a stock rig? seems like there is an issue on brake conversions where a check-valve keeps a certain amount of pressure in a drum brake cylinder and if you don't change the valves out when you put discs on then they don't release all the way and get hot. I'm pretty foggy on the topic, but maybe someone else knows.

I think the jacking up and spinning idea is the best.

Good luck.